Opera fans across Sweden will soon have access to world-class performances thanks to a new initiative bringing productions from New York’s Metropolitan Opera to cinemas nationwide.
The season kicks off October 3, 2026, with Mozart’s Così fan tutte and continues with a lineup including Verdi’s Macbeth (October 17, 2026), Saint-Saëns’ Samson and Delilah (December 5, 2026), Puccini’s Girl of the Golden West (January 23, 2027), Kevin Puts’ Silent Night (March 20, 2027), Massenet’s Manon (April 3, 2027), Verdi’s Otello (April 24, 2027), and Wagner’s Parsifal (June 5, 2027).
“For us, it’s about making world-class performing arts accessible throughout the country. Through the live broadcasts from the Metropolitan Opera, audiences can enjoy high-quality opera in their local cinemas, from Malmö to Haparanda,” said Nina Andersson, CEO of Folkets Hus and Parker. “Lowering the barriers to culture and creating shared experiences, regardless of where you live, is a central part of our democratic mission.”
The Metropolitan Opera is also presenting a special addition to the 2026–27 program: 20 Years of Metropolitan on Cinema: An Anniversary Gala, hosted by soprano Renée Fleming. The program features highlights from the collection of over 185 cinema-shown performances, including unforgettable moments with some of opera’s biggest stars, such as Lise Davidsen, Joyce DiDonato, Elīna Garanča, Dmitri Hvorostovsky, Jonas Kaufmann, Peter Mattei, Sondra Radvanovsky and Nadine Sierra.
Peter Gelb, the Met’s general director, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “Ever since I was an usher as a teenager, I have dreamed of a long-term relationship with the Met.” He continued, “Even as this marks my 20th season as general director, opera’s redemptive role in a troubled world is more important than ever. I am proud that this season program fulfills our goals of staging operas, both new and ancient, that speak to the time we live in.”
This initiative comes as opera houses worldwide explore innovative ways to reach wider audiences and maintain relevance in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape. The Met’s expansion into Swedish cinemas underscores the growing demand for accessible, high-quality cultural experiences.
